Thursday, December 6, 2012

Busy time

Well, it has been a while since I've posted anything.  I've been very busy lately and these last two weekends (since Thanksgiving) have really kept me going - which is a good thing. :)

We had a fantastic time at Sigi Guzman's retirement party.  He has retired from the Army after serving 22 years.  It was my honor to be there for him and his friends and family.  I split my time with the band "Michelle Canning and Rough Edges" - a bluegrass band.  They played a 45 minute set and were excellent.  After that, we rocked the night away.

Last Friday, I was back at Angelica's Restaurant in Middleton, MA for another party.  This was a dual-event - a retirement for Mike and a 60th birthday part for Santina Desisto.  We played lots of really cool Italian music throughout the night and everyone danced right until the very end. Annalisa did a terrific job pulling this off and her family was very proud of her.  I thank her, Roberto and Frankie for having me there as part of your special night.

That's it for now - bring on the holidays!

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Happy Thanksgiving

Hello everyone!

I want to take a moment - break away from the the daily grind, if you will - to extend a heartfelt wish of a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday to everyone.  I appreciate all the business I have had this year and I am thankful to all my clients who selected me for their entertainment this past year.

I take this job very seriously and I wouldn't still be doing it if I didn't have a passion for it.  I love music and I love to entertain and knowing that I can have an impact on someone's special day really means a lot to me and I am thankful for everything I have.

Whether you are travelling or staying local, please be safe and enjoy the company of friends and family over this long holiday weekend.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Sincerely,
Dan

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Mallory and Kyle's wedding

WOW!  What a great time we all had!!!

A sincere thanks to Mallory and Kyle for asking me to play at their wedding reception.  Everything went off without a hitch and everyone had a fantastic time.  They did everything they wanted to do and had fun doing it.  It was the perfect reception in every respect.

Thank you Mallory for your kinds words:
"Thank YOU for everything you've done :)  We had an amazing time and we're thrilled with everything. I'm so happy we got the chance to work with you and I can't tell you enough how easy and stress free you've made this process. We will absolutely keep you in mind for anything upcoming in the future :) I wish you well and again thank you SO very much."

That says it all!!  It is such a great feeling, personally, when you know you've made such an impact on someone's life that they will remember forever - THAT, makes it all worth while.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

It really is that simple...

I have just gone through two client meetings within one week and I have learned a few things along the way. I'd like to share them with you and stress the importance that, when it really comes down to it, keeping everything "simple" is really the basis for things to run smoothly.

Here are some of the things I have learned:

  1. LISTEN to what your clients need - FIRST!
    1. If you really listen to what they need, you'll know right away what it takes to give them what they want and at the right price for both parties.
  2. Price your services accordingly.
    1. If they need a simple party with no frills, you can almost certainly do something that is within their budget as well as your price range.
  3. Work with your clients - be flexible.
    1. This can go a long way beyond just the specific event for which you're providing entertainment.
    2. They will appreciate the flexibility and recommend you to others - friends, family & co-workers.
    3. Being sensitive to their needs also goes a long way.  Let's face it, the economy has hit all of us in one way or another and allowing clients to spread their payments out over time makes it easy on them and you still get paid - which is a good thing for you too!
  4. Respect your clients.
    1. Remember, they chose you!  You are working for them - don't ever lose sight of that.
    2. Let them select the things they want upfront, then - and only then - offer your advice and suggestions.  It is impossible to know what they want until they tell you so assuming anything else only sets you both up for failure.
  5. Respond promptly.
    1. Be available to them and answer their questions or concerns within 24 hours whenever possible.
    2. In this technological age, with texting, email, voice mail and social media available at your disposal, take advantage of them and use them to help you communicate. Almost all mobile devices allow you to use these applications immediately to effectively communicate.
  6. Get their feedback.
    1. Solicit their feedback quickly, while things are still fresh in their mind to get a honest response.
    2. Listen to their feedback and use it to improve wherever you can.
  7. Lastly...THANK THEM!
    1. I point to #1 in section 4 - "they chose you!" - make sure that you tell them that you appreciated their business and it was your pleasure to work for them.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Mal and Kyle's Wedding Reception

Well, I am all prepared for Mallory and Kyle's (the new Mr. & Mrs. Bernier) wedding reception on 11/3 in Dracut, MA.  We've gone over all the details and both seem really happy with what they've decided on and I am really looking forward to this event - it is going to be a blast!

Hi "aunty"! :)

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Danielle and Brian

I want to thank Danielle and Brian for allowing me the chance to meet with them last night and discuss their 2013 wedding. What can I say...they are a great couple and are planning a wonderful summer wedding.  After meeting with you last night, I can't wait for your special night.  I also look forward to working with you over the next few months.

Mallory & Kyle

I want to wish the best to Mallory and Kyle who are getting married this weekend. I look forward to playing at your reception. You are both wonderful people. Best wishes to you both on your future together.